Special Services
Special Services funds are state funds which may be used to provide time-limited or one-time-only funding for a needed service when no other family or community resource is available. Special Services may include, but are not limited to funding for medical services, therapy/counseling services, dental/orthodontic services, respite services, or other services related to the child’s special needs.
Special Services Adoption Assistance benefits are only available for children who:
- Were in the permanent custody of the Georgia Division of Family and Children Services (DFCS) at the time of being placed on adoptive status or who were transferred from DFCS custody into the permanent custody of a specified individual for the purpose of adoption;
- Are under 18 years of age; and
- Are currently receiving monthly adoption assistance benefits.
Applications for Special Services may be made prior to adoption finalization by contacting the Social Services Case Manager or after adoption finalization by contacting the Regional PAD Manager. Approval or denial of the request is made by the Social Services Administration Unit (SSAU). Approval is for a 12-month period of time and is contingent upon the availability of funds and the appropriateness of the request. Requests for multiple special services may be submitted and will be considered on a case-by-case basis.